They said: ‘It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain.

‘His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller. His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this incredibly difficult time.’

Stunned and saddened by the loss of Anthony Bourdain. He brought the world into our homes and inspired so many people to explore cultures and cities through their food. Remember that help is a phone call away US:1-800-273-TALK UK: 116 123

In the wake of the tragic news, stars have taken to social media to share their memories of Bourdain and their horror at his passing.

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Gordon Ramsay wrote: ‘Stunned and saddened by the loss of Anthony Bourdain. He brought the world into our homes and inspired so many people to explore cultures and cities through their food. Remember that help is a phone call away US:1-800-273-TALK UK: 116 123.’

Meanwhile, James Martin tweeted a portrait of the chef and wrote: ‘Such a sad loss.’

Nigella Lawson, who was close to Bourdain, tweeted: ‘Heartbroken to hear about Tony Bourdain’s death. Unbearable for his family and girlfriend. Am going off twitter for a while.’

Heartbroken to hear about Tony Bourdain’s death. Unbearable for his family and girlfriend. Am going off twitter for a while

Anthony. One of my idols. Unapologetic, passionate and one of the best storytellers on the planet. Thank you for making food so exciting. And always standing up for everything right. Horrible. Why why why. Be at peace now :(

Chrissy Teigen, who has written her own cookbooks and is a keen home chef, tweeted: ‘Anthony. One of my idols. Unapologetic, passionate and one of the best storytellers on the planet. Thank you for making food so exciting. And always standing up for everything right. Horrible. Why why why. Be at peace now :(.’

Mandy Moore wrote: ‘This is utterly heartbreaking. Thank you for opening our eyes to parts of the world both cherished and unknown. What a legacy. Sending peace and love to his family. If you or someone you love needs help, please reach out or call 1-800-273-TALK.’

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(This is the US number for the National Suicide Helpline; those in the UK should call Samaritans on 116 123.)

Other stars including First Dates Fred Sirieix, Boy George and the Cake Boss official account have issued tributes.

This is utterly heartbreaking. Thank you for opening our eyes to parts of the world both cherished and unknown. What a legacy. Sending peace and love to his family. If you or someone you love needs help, please reach out or call 1-800-273-TALK. https://t.co/mkht3wTY5m